How Does Depression Affect Teenagers (Adolescents)?

The level of depression’s severity and the level of suicide’s risk usually can be determined based on the result of these interviews. The treatment plan is also determined based on the information gathered from these interviews and psychological tests.

Other signs that may point to co-existing psychiatric problems (like substance abuse or anxiety) also should be concerned. Teen depression sometime also can be complex. It may be potential to become bipolar disorder (characterized by two major episodes – overwhelming sense of sad and happy). All of these issues must be analyzed as well.

The differences between depression in teenagers and adults

Sometimes depression in adults can look different or even very different from teen depression. According to Help Guide Org, below are some symptoms that are more commonly found in depressed teens:

When depressed adults are more likely to isolate themselves, some depressed teens may still keep up at least with few friendships.

Depressed teens are more likely to have excessively sensitivity to criticism. They are often plagued by sense of worthlessness, which then can make them excessively vulnerable to failure and criticism.

They are also more likely to have aches and pains that usually cannot be revealed or explained by medical reason. These aches & pains may include stomachaches and headaches.

Angry mood or irritability is also pretty common in depressed teens. They can experience overwhelming sense of sadness, but they are more often to have angry mood rather than sadness. They may also be more vulnerable to have sense of frustration, hostile, and grumpy.

How to treat depression in teenagers?

There are a wide variety of treatment options for depression. But in general, there are two common major treatments, psychotherapy (counseling) and medications. If doctors think that a family conflict has contribution, family therapy may be one of the effective options.

Furthermore, patient also needs additional support from their friends and teachers. For severe case of teen depression, hospitalization in a unit of psychiatric may be required.

The following are some common tips when talking to depressed teens:

Let them know that we are there only for them and we love them a lot. Don’t ask many questions to them, because generally they don’t like to have crowded /patronized! It’s much better to let them know that we are willing to give and provide whatever (anytime) support they need.

At first, they may shut you out – but don’t give up! It’s undeniable that talking about depression sometime can be tough or even very tough, especially for teens. Therefore, always remember to be respectful for their comfort. Keep emphasizing your goal and always have willingness to listen them!

Moreover don’t forget to become a good listener without lecturing! It’s important to build a good communication with depressed teens, but we should avoid offering any ultimatums or unsolicited advice.

In addition, the use of some antidepressants is pretty common for depressed people. But for the case of teen depression, the use of these medications should be closely monitoring by the mental healthcare providers!